Bottle cap system with internal storage chamber

ABSTRACT

A connector includes a cylindrical body having: a first threaded section at a first end of the body; a second threaded section at an opposite second end of the body; and at least one of the first or second end of the body has an opening and chamber formed in the body, the chamber having a chamber bottom positioned between the first end and second end, wherein the first threaded section and second threaded section having a same threading pattern and capable of being threadedly coupled to a same threaded receiver so that the connector is bidirectional. The first threaded section can be on a first stem and second threaded section is on a second stem. The first threaded section can be on a first receptacle and the second threaded section is on a second receptacle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/775,212 filed Mar. 8, 2013, which provisional application is incorporated herein by specific reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

There are many types of bottles that are used to store liquids for consumption and rehydration. As such, bottles are often carried during various activities. However, while being useful for carrying liquids, some bottles and associated caps have been configured for storing items. However, many of these bottle caps that can be used for storage lack the ability to store items of importance that are often carried by humans.

Therefore, it would be beneficial to have a bottle cap system that can be configured for storing a variety of items of importance to humans.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a connector includes a cylindrical body having: a first threaded section at a first end of the body; a second threaded section at an opposite second end of the body; and at least one of the first or second end of the body has an opening and chamber formed in the body, the chamber having a chamber bottom positioned between the first end and second end, wherein the first threaded section and second threaded section having a same threading pattern and capable of being threadedly coupled to a same threaded receiver so that the connector is bidirectional. In one aspect, the first threaded section is on a first stem and second threaded section is on a second stem. In one aspect, the first threaded section is adapted to be threadedly coupled to threading of a bottle, and the second threaded section adapted to be threadedly coupled to threading of a cap, the bottle and cap having a same threading pattern that threadedly receive the first and second threaded sections. In one aspect, the first threaded section is on a first receptacle and the second threaded section is on a second receptacle. In one aspect, an annular ridge is between the first threaded section and second threaded section. In one aspect, the chamber bottom is at the first end. In one aspect, the chamber bottom is aligned with the annular ridge. In one aspect, a seal seat is on at least one of the first threaded section or second threaded section. In one aspect, a seal is located in the seal seat. In one aspect, the connector includes two or more chambers. In one aspect, the connector includes a filter that is fluidly separate from the chamber. In one aspect, the connector includes a straw pathway that is fluidly separate from the chamber. In one aspect, a polymeric annular member is on at least one of the first or second threaded sections, the polymeric annular member is thermally modifiable.

In one embodiment, a cap storage system includes: the connector of one of the embodiments; and a cap having a cap threaded section adapted to be threadedly coupled with both of the first threaded section and second threaded section of the connector, wherein coupling the cap and connector forms a sealed storage compartment with the connector chamber. In one aspect, the cap threaded section is on a cap stem. In one aspect, the cap threaded section is on a cap receptacle. In one aspect, the cap includes a cap chamber that cooperates with the connector chamber to form the storage compartment. In one aspect, the cap comprises one or more of: an aperture extending through the cap, the aperture fluidly separate from the chamber and/or storage compartment; a sound device; a compass; a fastener device; a magnetic member; a magnetically responsive member; or a camera fastener. In one aspect, the connector includes a fluid pathway that fluidly couples with a filter of the connector that is fluidly separate from the cap chamber and/or connector chamber and/or storage compartment. In one aspect, the cap includes a straw pathway that fluidly couples with a connector straw pathway and that is fluidly separate from the connector chamber and/or cap chamber and/or storage compartment.

In one embodiment, a bottle and cap storage system includes: the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; and a bottle having a threaded receiver that is capable of threadedly coupling with both the first threaded section and second threaded section.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The foregoing and following information as well as other features of this disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the embodiment of a cap and connector storage system of FIG. 1A with the cap coupled to the connector.

FIG. 2A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a connector of a storage system.

FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a connector of a storage system.

FIG. 2C illustrates a bottom end view of an embodiment of a connector of a storage system.

FIG. 2D illustrates a top end view of an embodiment of a connector of a storage system.

FIG. 2E illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a connector of a storage system.

FIG. 2F illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 2G illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a connector storage system.

FIG. 2H illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 2I illustrates a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of a cap of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 4A illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system with a filtration device.

FIG. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system with a straw and spout separate from a filtration device.

FIG. 4C illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system with a straw and spout fluidly coupled with a filtration device.

FIG. 5A illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a cap with a drink spout and straw for an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a connector with a connector straw for an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a connector with half being a filter and half being a storage chamber for an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a connector having a speaker for an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a connector inverted in a bottle so that the connector chamber is fluidly coupled with the bottle chamber for an embodiment of a cap and connector storage system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

Generally, the present invention is related to a bottle cap system that provides a storage compartment. The bottle cap system can include a connector and a cap that mate together in order to form the storage compartment therein. The connector can have a chamber therein such that when the cap is mated with the connector, the connector provides the bottom of the storage compartment and the cap provides the top of the storage compartment. The cap can also have a chamber that cooperates with the chamber of the connector to form the storage compartment. As such, the chambers of the connector and cap can be configured individually as cups or recesses and cooperatively configured together so that the chambers combine to form the storage compartment. The storage compartment can be formed from mating the connector and cap, which may be fluid or airtight. One or more seal members can be adapted to fit between and seal the storage compartment, which can be circular or flat O-rings. Accordingly, the dimensions and coupling mechanism of the connector and cap can be configured so that a portion of one is threadedly received into a portion of the other. While the connector is shown in many embodiments to have a stem that fits into a receptacle of the cap where the outer dimension of the outer stem is smaller than the inner dimension of the receptacle, the connector may have the receptacle and the cap having a stem that is received in the receptacle.

In one embodiment, the connector can have opposite ends with threaded portions with the same threading pattern so that either threaded portion can be threadedly coupled with the bottle and the cap. As such, the connector is reversible so that either the first threaded end or the second threaded end can threadedly couple with the bottle and the other end can threadedly couple with the cap. As such, the cap can have a threaded portion with the same threading as the bottle, which allows for the cap to be received on either the first threaded end or the second threaded end of the connector.

FIG. 1A shows an exploded view of a bottle cap system 100 that includes a connector 102 and a cap 103, and FIG. 1B shows the connector 102 threadedly receiving the cap 103 and a bottle 101. The connector 102 includes a first stem 120 having a first threading 122 and a second stem 124 having a second threading 126, where a protruding stop 128 separates the first stem 120 from the second stem 124. The first threading 122 and the second threading 126 are substantially the same and can be threadedly coupled with the same threaded recess of the cap 103 or bottle (not shown). The protruding stop 128 is separated from a seal stop 130 by a seal seat 132 that receives a seal member 110. Each stem 120, 124 can include the seal seat 132 formed by the seal stop 130 and the protruding stop 128. Also, the system 100 is shown to include an optional annular seal member 110 that is received onto the seal seat 132 of each stem 120, 124 of the connector 102. The protruding stop 128 is shown to have bumps 134, which can be substituted with any grip-enhancing feature.

The first stem 120 is shown to have a recess 136 that is defined by recess walls 138 which are the body of the connector 102. The recess 136 can extend partially or fully through the connector 102, and may have a base 139 at any position between a first end 120 a and a second end 124 a. The base is shown in other figures. In one aspect, the base is at the protruding stop 128. In one aspect, the base is at the second end 124 a. In either aspect, the connector 102 is reversible and capable of threadedly coupling with a bottle to seal the bottle. As such, the connector 102 can function as a lid in either orientation so as to fluidly seal the bottle.

The cap 103 includes a threaded recess 140 that can be coupled with either the first stem 120 or the second stem 124. FIG. 1B shows the coupling of the cap 103 to the connector 102. The cap 103 is shown to have a body that is dimensioned to be received over the first stem 120. The perimeter of the cap 103 adjacent to an open end 142 can include bumps 144, which can be substituted with any grip-enhancing feature. The body of the cap 103 is shown to have a tapered top portion that has an aperture 146 defined by extensions 148 and a top cross-member 150. The aperture 146 is shown to have a bottom 152 that includes a compass 154; however, any other first component that can fit in the bottom 152 can be substituted for the compass 154. The top cross-member 150 is shown to have a sound member 156, which can be configured as a whistle or animal call (e.g., bird call, game call, elk call, moose call, or the like). The compass can be any compass such as a liquid-filled compass for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency/survival situations.

FIG. 2A shows the connector 102 with the base 139 at the protruding stop 128. FIG. 2B shows the connector with the base 139 at the second end 124 a. However, the base 139 can be anywhere between the first end 120 a and the second end 124 a. The base defines the recess(es) 136, which in FIG. 2A extend from the first end 120 a to the protruding stop 128 as a first recess 136 a, and extends from the second end 124 a to the protruding stop 128 as a second recess 136 b. In FIG. 2B the recess 136 extends from the first end 120 a to the second end 124 a. FIG. 2C shows an end view of the connector 102 showing the second end 124 a and the base 139. FIG. 2D shows an end view of the connector 102 showing the first end 120 a and the recess 136 and the base 139. FIG. 2E shows the connector 102 without the protruding stop 128, where the first stem 120, the first threading 122, and the recess 136 extends from an open end 120 b to the base 139.

In one embodiment, the connector 102 can include a divider member 170 located in the recess 136 or the recesses 136 a, 136 b. This forms two cavities in the recess 136 or the recesses 136 a, 136 b. Any number of divider members 170 can be used to form any number of separate cavities in the recess 136 or the recesses 136 a, 136 b. The cavities can be fluid tight from each other when the cap 103 is coupled to the connector 102. For example, one cavity can be used for wet items, and the other cavity can be used for dry items, or hot and dry, or powder and liquid.

FIG. 2F shows a connector 202 and a cap 203 of a bottle cap system 200 that includes two threaded recesses 236 separated by a base 239. The connector is shown to be coupled to a bottle 201. The threaded recesses 236 are adapted to fit onto bottles 201 having threaded stems 201 a. The cap 203 can be any shape and size, and includes a threaded stem 203 a that is received into one of the threaded recesses 236. The cap 203 can an internal recess 262, and may include any feature of the cap 203 of the other figures. The connector 202 may or may not include a protruding stop. The threaded recesses 236 can be any dimension, and much deeper than the length of the threaded stems 201 a, 203 a so that a space is between the base 239 and the bottle 201 or the cap 203. The space can be used as the recess for retaining items, which space can cooperate with the internal recess 262 for storage. While not shown, the region in the threaded recesses 236 adjacent to the base 239 may be devoid of threads, or the threads can extend to the base 239. Here, the connector 202 is again reversible and either end can be coupled to the bottle 201 or the cap 203. In one embodiment, the illustrated cap 203 may actually be another bottle, which allows for carrying two bottles 201, or where the cap 203 is bottle shaped. However, the cap 203 can be configured as any common or known cap with or without any of the features described herein.

FIG. 2G shows a bottle cap system 240 that includes the connector 102 and connector 202. This allows either connector 102 or 202 to be used as the connector and the other the cap. The system 240 can be used on bottles that have either the internally or externally threaded stem. Also, the cap of the bottle can be used as cap on one of the connectors. The connectors 102 and 202 can include any of the features described herein. The system 240 may also include the cap 103 or 203 with any of the features as described herein.

The system 240 of FIG. 2G can include any number of the connector 102 and/or the connector 202. This allows the connector 102 to be coupled to the connector 202 on either end or both ends. This also allows the connector 202 to be coupled to the connector 102 on either end or both ends. This provides a plurality of internal chambers defined by the recesses of the connectors 102 and 202. While not shown, one or more of the connectors 102 and 202 can be devoid of a base so that the recess is a channel from the first end to the second end which allows for an elongate internal chamber when they are coupled together; however, at least one of connectors 102 and/or 202 has a base that provides for a sealed chamber that is separate and fluid tight from the bottle. The plurality of connectors 102 and plurality of connectors 202 coupled together is shown by the dashed lines.

FIG. 2H shows a system 250 that includes the connector 102 and two caps 103. Here, the system 250 can be used without a bottle. However, the bottle can be coupled to either stem of the connector 102.

FIG. 2I shows the system 260 that includes the connector 202 and two caps 203. Here, the system 260 can be used without a bottle. However, the bottle can be coupled to either threaded recess of the connector 202.

FIG. 3A shows the cap 103 that has the threaded recess 140 at the open end 142. The threaded recess 140 includes threads 160 that threadedly receive the threads 122, 126 of the first stem 120 and/or the second stem 124. FIG. 3B shows the cap 103 where the threaded recess 140 opens into an internal recess 162 that may or may not be threaded, where an unthreaded internal recess 162 is shown. The internal recess 162 is further from the open end 142 compared to the threaded recess 140. The internal recess 162 can be adapted to any size or shape. In one example, the internal recess 162 can be dimensioned to receive a smartphone or portable device, such as an iPhone or Droid device or the like.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show the top cross-member 150 having a feature 164, which is shown as a circle. The feature 164 can be a variety of features for different uses. In one aspect, the feature 164 can be a solar panel, where the size can be modified as needed or desired. Also, the feature can be other shapes or sizes and may protrude from the top cross-member 150. In one aspect, the feature 164 can be a threaded protrusion that is dimensioned as a camera mount that can be threadedly received into the threaded recess of a camera. In one aspect, the feature 164 can be an aperture, which can be dimensioned to receive a fastener, such as a key ring, c-clamp, carabineer, or the like or any other fastener member that can fasten the cap 103 to another object. It should be recognized that the cap 103 and top cross-member 150 can have any suitable shape or size without limitation. The lid will have a circular eyelid hole wide enough to fit a key ring or carabineer for hooking the bottle cap system to other items such as backpacks, key sets, and purses.

FIG. 4A shows a bottle cap system 400 a that includes a filter device 410. As shown, the system 400 includes a connector 402 being coupled to a bottle 401 and a cap 403. The cap 403 can be any cap described herein, where the cap 103 is an example, and any of the features of the caps can be included. The connector 402 is shown to be a filter modification of the connector 102; however, the filter modification can be employed in the connector 202. As such, the connector 402 can have two threaded stems or two threaded recesses. The connector 402 is shown to include a filter device 420. The filter device 420 can be configured as any filter device that can filter the fluid being introduced into the bottle and/or being extracted therefrom. The filter device 420 can be contained in a base 439 of the connector 402. The filter device 420 can have a portion in the recess 436 and a portion in the bottle 401. The filter device 420 is represented schematically and can have any number of filter elements in any orientation and configuration. As shown, the filter device can include a filter body 422 having a top end 424 with a removable top 426 with a handle 428, and have a bottom end 430 that extends into the bottle 401.

FIG. 4B shows an embodiment, where a bottle cap system 400 b includes a spout and straw system 450. The spout and straw system 450 includes a spout 452 fluidly coupled to a straw 454 when the cap 403 is coupled to the connector 402. The straw extends into the bottle through the base 239. The spout 452 can be any type of drink spout, such as a pull spout found on common water bottles. The spout and straw system 450 is fluid tight from the recess in the connector 402.

FIG. 4C shows an embodiment, where a bottle cap system 400 c includes a spout and straw system 460. The spout and straw system 460 includes a spout 462 fluidly coupled to a straw 464 when the cap 403 is coupled to the connector 402. The straw extends into the bottle through the filter device 420. The spout 452 can be any type of drink spout, such as a pull spout found on common water bottles. The spout and straw system 450 is fluid tight from the recess in the connector 402. Here, the straw 464 can be used to suck water through the filter device 420.

For the over the thread biker style SKU, a pull spout will be placed on the side of the compass that will pass through the storage cylinder without exposing any storage items to the liquid, but still creating a free flowing pathway for the water.

FIG. 5A shows a cap 503 that has a straw 510, which is optionally openable and/or retractable. The straw 510 includes a mouth portion 512 that can open or pull from the cap 503. The cap 503 may have a recess 505 that receives the mouth portion 512. The mouth portion 512 may swivel or pivot with respect to the cap 503. The mouth portion 512 is coupled to a straw conduit 514 via a straw attachment 516 that fluidly couples the conduits thereof. The cap 503 can be coupled to a connector 502, shown in FIG. 5B, that has a connector straw 520. The connector straw 520 can extend through a recess 536 and through a base 539 so as to fluidly couple the straw 510 with a bottle 501. The connector straw 520 can terminate at the hole in the base 539 as shown or extend therethrough.

FIG. 6 shows a connector 602 that has one side as a filter 620 and the other side as a recess 636 that forms the internal compartment. The filter 620 can be fluidly coupled with the bottle so that filter water can be drank from the filter 620 of the connector 602.

FIG. 7 shows a speaker 700 that can fit within a connector 702 or be integrated therewith. The speaker can have a line-in for receiving audio signals, and can include any feature for sound adjustment. The speaker 700 can be configured as any speaker. Also, the speaker can have a power supply inlet. The inner cavity of the cap will have the option to contain a speaker with 3.5-mm jack and USB cord for power and sound options.

FIG. 8 shows the connector 102 coupled to the bottle 101 so that the base 139 is oriented out of the bottle 101. This allows the contents of the recess of the connector 102 to be dumped into the bottle 101. This may be useful for mixing a substance, such as a liquid or powder, into the liquid of the bottle 101. The inverted connector 102 can then allow the bottle and connector to be used as a shaker. This can include mixing electrolytes into the water. It can also be useful for mixing an alcoholic beverage into the liquid of the bottle.

The embodiments described herein can include features that can be used with or combined with other features of any of the other embodiments.

In one embodiment, the bottle cap system can include a connector having a filter system, where the connector receives a cap and couples to a bottle. The connector and cap cooperate to form the storage chamber.

In one embodiment, a connector and cap can cooperate to form a storage chamber dimensioned to receive a larger device, such as a smartphone or other portable device. For example, an iPhone can be located in the storage chamber.

In one embodiment, at least one of the connector and/or cap can have a magnetically responsive coating and the other can be magnetic. This allows the cap to magnetically attach to the connector. Both the connector and cap can be magnetic. Also, when the cap is magnetic it can magnetically couple with the connector or to a metallic bottle. Also, when the connector is magnetic it can magnetically couple with the cap or to a metallic bottle. A layer of metallic magnetic coating and a ring magnet in the bottom of the canister will allow the lid and canister to stick to a metal bottle or any other metal surface for when an individual is accessing the contents inside the canister and do not want to lose either unit.

In one embodiment, the cap and connector cooperate to have a fluid pathway separate from the storage chamber, and a pull spout can be coupled with the fluid pathway. The storage chamber is separate and dry from the fluid pathway.

In one embodiment, the cap and connector cooperate to have a fluid pathway fluidly coupled to a filter system, which is separate from the storage chamber and pull spout coupled with the fluid pathway. The storage chamber is separate and dry from the fluid pathway.

In one embodiment, the connector can be coupled with a bottle with the chamber of the connector fluidly coupled with the internal chamber of the bottle. The base of the chamber of the connector forms a cap. However, a cap can also be received on the connector.

In one embodiment, the connector can be adapted to receive a speaker in the chamber. A cap can be coupled to the connector to retain the speaker therein. Optionally, the chamber includes a hole with a speaker cord extending therethrough. However, the speaker can be Bluetooth® or otherwise wireless.

In one embodiment, the cap can be adapted with a whistle or wild game call. For example, a Duck Commander game call can be coupled with the cap or integral therewith. In one example, the cap can have a receiver adapted to receive the wild game call. The finger loop handle on the lid has a shape that allows a whistle or wild game call to be made out of the circular and bridge shape. This can be used by people in at-risk situations at night and in nature or to call wild animals. In one aspect, a universal cap will feature a whistle nozzle that can be interchanged into wild game hunting calls including, but not limited to: deer, turkey, duck, goose, moose, elk, raccoon, pig, and coyote.

In one embodiment, the connector can have one side being a water filter and the other side being a storage compartment. The storage compartment is fluid tight and separate from the water filter, such as when the cap is coupled thereto.

In one embodiment, the connector can have a polymeric annular member or other moldable coating. This can allow the polymer member to be heated and coupled with a bottle in order to form the threading of the bottle on the connector. The heated polymer molds with the threading and retains the threaded when cooled and hardened. Similar to a custom sport mouthpiece or a pair of moldable boot liners, the threaded portion of the cap will come with a blank pattern that with activation of boiling water can be molded to fit any thread pattern and still be 100% waterproof.

In one embodiment, a cap can have a solar panel coupled with the connector. The solar panel can be coupled or couplable to electronics so as to be capable of charging a battery, such as a battery in a speaker in the storage compartment or device in the storage compartment. The bottom cavity accessory attachment mount will fit a small solar panel capable of powering cell phones, radios, GPS devices, etc. while outdoors in nature away from power sources.

In one embodiment, a cap can have one side having a first container and a second side having a second container. When the cap is coupled to the connector, the first and second containers are separate and fluid tight from each other.

In one embodiment, the cap can be configured with a camera mount so that a camera can be mounted to the connector. That is, the cap includes a camera fastener that can be coupled to a fastener of a camera. Many cameras have a standard threaded receptacle, and the connector includes the cooperative threaded shaft. While not shown, the cap may include the threaded shaft adapted to be received into the threaded receptacle of the camera.

In one embodiment, the cap can have a hole with a carabineer received therethrough. In one aspect, the cap can have a hole while with a key ring received therethrough.

In one embodiment, the cap can have a whistle integrated therewith. The cap body forms the whistle with an opening at the top for a user to blow through to create a whistling sound.

In one embodiment, the connector can have a straw passageway that is separate from the storage chamber. That is, the straw can be received down through the connector and the storage chamber stays dry. In one aspect, the cap can have a straw passageway that connects to an openable port. The port may swivel open to facilitate drinking therefrom. The straw passageway of the cap can cooperate with the straw passageway of the connector so that a single straw may extend from the cap through the connector into the bottle for drinking.

The connector can have a cap connector section that receives the cap as described herein, and a bottle connector section that receives a bottle as described in. The cap connector section and cup connector section may or may not include an annular ridge (e.g., protruding stop) separating these two ends. The annular ridge can be an annular protrusion that extends from the shaft of the connector when one or more of the sections is a shaft configuration. Also, the cap connector section and/or the bottle connector section can be configured as a receptacle, whereby an annular ridge can be omitted. When both ends are receptacles, the receptacle bottom can form a stop. Both the cap connector section and bottle connector section can include seal members so as to seal the respective sections to the cap or bottle when coupled thereto. The cap connector section can have a coupling mechanism adapted to couple with the cap and the bottle connector section can have a coupling mechanism adapted to couple with the bottle. In one aspect, the cap connector section is also adapted to couple with the bottle and/or the bottle connector section is also adapted to couple with the cap. This allows the connector to be reversible for additional functionality as described herein. However, the connector can be unidirectional where the cap connector section only couples with the cap and the bottle connection section only couples with the bottle.

In one embodiment, the connector can include one or more chambers. A chamber can be adapted in the connector body by the body being substantially tubular with at least one open end and at least one chamber bottom that seals the chamber from the other end.

In one example, the cap connector end can include an opening into the chamber and the bottle connector end can include a base that forms the base of the chamber. As such, the connector can be a tube with a base at one end forming the chamber. However, the base can be positioned at any location within the lumen of the tube so that both ends have a chamber with an opening. The base can then be the bottom of each chamber with the lumen on each side of the base being the chamber. This can provide a cap chamber and/or a bottle chamber.

In one embodiment, the connector can be configured as a regular cylinder having a first portion that is threaded to fit with a cap—either the cap lip fitting into or outside of the thread. The regular cylinder can have a second portion that is threaded to fit with a bottle—either the bottle lip fitting into or outside of the thread. The threading on either portion can be standard clockwise rotation that tightens and counterclockwise rotation that loosens; however, this can be inverse.

In one aspect, both threaded portions can be standard clockwise thread. The threading can be both in the same direction so when the connector is screwed with either the cap or bottle, screwing the other does not loosen the prior screwed members. This allows the connector to be screwed with the cap or bottle first, and then screwing the other without loosening the first screwed members. The threaded portions of the connector can be separated by a member, such as an annular ridge or middle part which can facilitate grip during screwing the connector to the cap and/or bottle. The annular ridge can include nodules, recesses, or other grip-enhancing features. Each threaded portion can include a seal at the base to seal the threaded portion with the cap or bottle, which can provide a fluid-tight seal to the chamber therein. Each threaded portion can include a seal-receiving recess that receives the seal therein. Also, a slightly protruding member can be positioned a distance from the annular ridge so that the O-ring fits between the slightly protruding member and annular ridge. The slightly protruding member can be referred to as an O-ring retaining member.

In one embodiment, the connector is configured with a chamber having an opening at one end and a base at or proximal the other end. As such, the connector can be coupled to the bottle so as to seal the bottle and preventing fluid leakage with the chamber oriented away from the bottle and staying dry. However, the connector can be inverted and coupled with the bottle so that the chamber opens into and is fluidly coupled with the internal portion of the bottle, and the base of the chamber can be oriented away from the bottle, which allows the base of the connector to essentially form a cap. The cap can then be attached to the portion of the connector extending away from the bottle. Such a connector can be useful in many instances by being reversible with the bottle. For example, the chamber can be used to keep its contents dry when attached to the bottle, and then the connector can be removed from the bottle, inverted, and re-attached to the bottle so that the chamber contents dump or flow into the bottle. This can be used with a dry powder, such as energy or food or flavor powder or tablet or other dry comestible composition being kept dry in the first orientation, and then being dumped into the bottle in the second orientation. The bottle having the connector connected with the chamber fluidly coupled with the bottle can be shaken so that the fluid in the bottle enters into the chamber and takes the contents thereof into the bottle. This can be useful for mixing water with a powder or tablets or other substance to be mixed with water. The cap can be received with the connector in either orientation. The cap can also include a chamber so that a storage compartment is formed when the cap is received onto either end of the connector.

Additionally, liquids can also be placed into the chamber of the connector and the connector can be coupled with the bottle with the chamber oriented into the bottle so that liquid can flow into the bottle. This can be useful, for example, with the chamber receiving an alcoholic liquid that is then combined with the liquid of the bottle for a consumable alcoholic beverage. The amount of alcoholic liquid can be metered for desired taste. The alcoholic beverage can be mixed by shaking the bottle having the cap in either orientation, either chamber in the bottle or chamber out of the bottle. The contents of the bottle can then be poured into the chamber of the connector and the chamber can be used as a cup. The chamber can be the recess in the connector.

The configuration of the connector having at least one chamber with an open end allows the connector to be used as a cup. For example, the connector can be oriented with the open end up and the chamber having a bottom in a manner similar to a cup. A liquid, such as from the bottle or other source, can be placed into the chamber of the connector. The connector can then be handled and manipulated in a drinking action to consume liquid from the chamber of the connector. Similarly, any edible or comestible composition can be put in the chamber of the connector and consumed. For example, the connector can be used as a shot glass to consume shots of alcoholic beverages.

In one embodiment, the treading region of the connector can include a polymeric layer or coating or annular member or cylinder over the threading. The polymeric annular member can be thermoplastic, elastomeric, or other deformable or temperature-deformable polymeric layer or ring that lays over the threading. The polymeric annular member is useful in adapting the threaded region of the connector to mate and couple with the bottle to form a fluid tight seal to seal the bottle. For example, if a bottle is provided with a threading region that does not exactly match with the threading region of the connector, the polymeric annular member can function as an adapter therebetween for fluid-tight coupling. The polymeric annular member can be applied to the threaded region of the connector and then received or screwed with the threaded region of the bottle to provide the fluid-tight coupling. The polymeric annular member can have a threaded surface that matches the threading on the connector and a surface that is not threaded or having a different threading so as to be capable of screwing with the bottle threading. The annular member can be formed on the threaded surface of the connector by applying the material and allowing it to harden to the elastomeric property. Also, the polymeric annular member can be heated to be moldable and then threaded onto the bottle threading and cooled so that the annular member forms threading that matches the threading of the bottle. For example, the polymer annular member may be made of material used for mouthguards, which is heated to soften and then screwed with the bottle so that the polymeric annular member forms threading on a surface that conforms to the bottle threading and a surface that conforms to the connector threading. In one example, the connector having the polymeric annular member on the connector threading can be heated with heated water to soften the polymeric annular member, the connector having the heated annular member can then be screwed with the bottle with the bottle screwing with the polymeric annular member so as to form threading on the annular member that matches the bottle threading. Once cooled, the polymeric annular member can have threading that matches the threading of the bottle. The polymeric annular member may be of a dimension that dimensionally adapts to a bottle having a different threaded region dimension from the connector threaded region dimension.

In one embodiment, the polymeric annular member can be removed from the connector. This can be useful prior to washing the connector, such as washing in a dishwasher with hot water. The polymeric annular member may be removed by unscrewing or being cut off of the connector member. As such, a kit can include the connector and one or more polymeric annular members. Also, a kit can include the connector and a material that can be applied to the connector threading and hardened to form the polymeric annular member described herein. Also, a kit can include a polymeric strip that can be wrapped around the connector threads and formed into the polymer annular member.

In one embodiment, the invention can include the connector and cap as a system that is adapted to be received on a bottle as shown. The connector and cap system cooperate to form the storage compartment, and the connector can couple with a bottle. The system may also include a bottle, connector, and cap. The cap may or may not be adapted to couple with the bottle. In one option, the connector is reversible so that both ends can be coupled with the bottle and cap. In one option, the connector is unidirectional with one end adapted to connect the bottle and the other end adapted to connect the cap.

The invention may include the connector alone. As such, the connector can be configured to combine with a provided bottle having a cap. The connector can be screwed with the bottle on a connector bottle section and the cap can be screwed on a connector cap section, where the connector bottle section is opposite of the connector cap section. As such, the connector bottle section and connector cap section can be adapted to fit existing bottles. The connector can be configured as any of the connector embodiments described herein can function to separate and connect a bottle and bottle cap, where the bottle can be screwed with the bottle cap. For example, often, a bottle includes a receptacle thread or a stem thread, and the cap includes the opposite thereof as either a stem thread that screws with the receptacle thread or a receptacle thread that screws with the stem thread. As such, the connector can have one side adapted as a receptacle thread and the other side adapted as a stem thread. This allows the connector to be inserted with and coupled with the bottle and its bottle cap. However, the invention can include this type of connector with a corresponding bottle and bottle cap where the connector can connect the bottle and cap together and the bottle and cap can be connected together. The connector and cap still cooperate and couple to form the storage compartment as described herein.

In one embodiment, a system can include two water bottles capable of being connected to or being connected to opposite ends of the connector. The connector can be reversible and the bottles can have the same type of treading to receive the connector. The connector can have at least one chamber therein that fluidly couples with at least one of the bottles. The connector can be configured as described herein.

In one aspect, the bottles can have different threading and the connector can be unidirectional.

In one embodiment, the system can include two caps capable of being connected to or being connected to opposite ends of the connector. The connector can be reversible and the caps can have the same type of treading to receive the connector. The connector can have at least one chamber therein that fluidly couples with at least one of the caps to form the storage compartment; however, the connector may form a storage compartment with each cap by having a chamber in each end with a base therebetween separating the chambers in the connector. The connector can be configured as described herein. In one aspect, the caps can have different threading and the connector can be unidirectional. For example, the connector can be configured with a first end that couples to a first type of bottle and a second end that couples to a second type of bottle that is different from the first type. The system can include a first cap for the first end and a different second cap for the second end. This allows the connector and one cap to fit one type of bottle threading and also to fit with a different type of bottle threading with the other cap. As such, both caps can be identical or they can be different.

In one embodiment, a system can include a plurality of connectors. The connectors can be the same (e.g., unidirectional with a threaded stem and threaded recess). However, the connectors may be different (e.g., the connector 102 and the connector 202) so that the system includes different connectors to fit with different bottle threadings. For example, the different connectors can have different threading patterns, different thread region dimensions, different threading receptacles, different threading stems, or other differences to fit different bottles. The system may also include a plurality of caps to fit each of the plurality of connectors. However, the connectors can be unidirectional or bidirectional and adapted to fit with existing bottle and bottle caps where the bottle and bottle caps can be coupled together. The connectors may or may not be capable of being coupled with each other. For example, a first connector can be coupled to a bottle, then a second connector can be coupled to the first connector, then a third connector can be coupled to the second connector, which connector coupling to connector can be repeated as often for as long as desired or capable. Also, the connectors coupled to connectors can each have chambers so that a storage compartment is formed between the coupled connectors. In one aspect, the plurality of connectors can be configured so that a single cap fits on all of the connectors.

In one embodiment, a kit can include a plurality of connectors, where at least one connector includes a base forming a chamber therein and at least one connector lacks a base so as to form a lumen with a luminal opening at each end. Two or more of the plurality of connectors can be coupled together so as to increase the size of the storage compartment. For example, a first connector having the chamber with the base can be coupled to the bottle so that the chamber is separate from and oriented away from the bottle, then a second connector that has a lumen (e.g., tube) is coupled to the first connector so that the chamber of the first connector couples with the lumen of the second connector to form an elongated chamber. Additional luminal connectors (e.g., without a base or without a compartment) can be coupled to the free end of the second connector to further the length or size of the chamber. The lumen of the connectors can be of the same or different cross-sectional size. In one aspect, the end-to-end coupling of increasingly larger cross-sectional connector lumen can provide for a selectable size storage compartment. The kit can include a cap for each connector to select the terminal connector opposite of the bottle.

The bottle described herein can be a common drink bottle with a defined shape as well as a bladder. For example, a bladder, such as a hydration bladder that fits into a hydration pack can be the bottle that receives the connector of the present invention. Also, the connector can be adapted to be received on a cycling bottle, where the connector can include a fluid pathway that passes by but is separate from the storage compartment, and the cap can be adapted to retain the storage compartment as dry while allowing a subject to consume liquid from the bottle.

In one embodiment, the cap can be adapted with a chamber that is more voluminous than the chamber of the connector. The chamber in the cap can be adapted to receive the objects described herein. Here, the chamber of the connector may or may not be tubular.

In one embodiment, the connector and/or cap can be adapted to include or receive various objects. That is, the connector and/or cap may be adapted to include or receive different objects outside the storage chamber. Examples are illustrated. For example, the connector and/or cap can be adapted to include or receive objects such as the following: key ring, keys, magnet, metal, whistle, animal or game call device, camera, mobile device, speakers, headphones, watch, clock, alarm, sound emitter, or combination thereof.

The storage compartment formed by the connector coupled to the cap can be adapted to size, shape, orientation, or the like to accommodate various items. Examples of some items that can be fit into a properly configured storage compartment can include: matches, keys, credit card, identification card, medical card, insurance card, passport, medicine, medicine bottle, syringe, pre-filled syringes, EpiPen, insulin syringe, glucose monitor, watch, clock, mobile device, smartphone, music device, speakers, headphones, Bluetooth® device, corded device (e.g., storage compartment can have a slot or hole to receive the cord thereof), portable gaming device, camera, knife, water tablets, water purifying tablets, medications, chewing gum, mints, jewelry, Band-Aids, keys, supplements, supplement powders, USB sticks, memory cards, cash, coins, vaccines for warfare, whistle, compass, makeup, lip balm, golf tees, golf balls, ball markers, USB cord, pencil sharpeners, hand warmers, hand sanitizers, tea packet, a public transit pass or ticket, wallet (e.g., dimensioned to fit in jeans pocket or other standard or known wallet shape), money clip, and combinations thereof. That is, the storage compartment can be configured to accommodate one or more of the recited items, or other items that may be desired to be included. The connector chamber alone can be adapted to receive these types of objects. The cap alone can be adapted to receive these types of objects. The connector and cap can be coupled together to form the storage chamber such that the storage chamber is adapted to receive these types of objects.

The chambers of the connector and/or cap or storage compartment thereof can include slots to receive cards (e.g., credit or identification) or slots to receive devices (e.g., mobile device).

The connector and/or cap can include indicia, such as a trademark or symbol of a company or goods or service or school or team or brand or liquor or beer or the like. The indicia can be printed into, embossed, or engraved. The invention includes such connector and/or cap as well as systems and kits having the same and methods of making or using the same.

The connector and cap can be prepared from a variety of materials ranging from plastics, carbon fiber, metal, metallic magnetic, magnetic-responsive, composite, or others. The invention is not limited to a material, and most suitable materials that are used for bottles and caps can be used for the connector and cap of the present invention.

The connector and can be configured to be disposable or recyclable such as common single use water bottles.

In one embodiment, a kit or system can include a cup that fits into the chamber of the connector and/or cap so as to form two storage compartments therein when the connector is coupled with the cap.

In one embodiment, a kit or system can include a pouch that couples to the connector and/or cap. That is, the connector and/or cap includes a coupling mechanism that allows for the pouch to be coupled thereto. The pouch can include a fastener and internal chamber that can be opened or closed. For example, the pouch can be a purse or small bag with a zipper or Velcro enclosure so that goods or valuables can be included in the pouch. The pouch may be removably couplable with the connector and/or cap, such as through a key ring or key ring hole in the connector and/or cap. A carabineer may also be used or included with the connector and/or cap to couple the pouch therewith.

In one embodiment, a system or kit can include a carabineer that couples with the connector and/or cap.

In one embodiment, a strap can be coupled to the connector and cap so that the connector and cap are coupled together through the strap. The strap can be polymeric or fabric or other material.

In one embodiment, within the connector a secondary removable storage unit will be accessible either by a pull tab magnet, twist top, or hinged door.

In one embodiment, a 2.5-inch wide by 5-inch tall compartment will be made as an option to contain most cell phones, digital pocket cameras, and financial cards.

In one embodiment, different coating finishes such as thermochromic, chameleon, camouflage, neon, and glow in the dark will be offered.

In one embodiment, the bottom cavity can also be turned upside down to work as a mounting unit for additional accessories such, as but not limited to, a tray, flashlight, and camera mount.

For the over the thread biker style SKU, a pull spout will be placed on the side of the compass that will pass through the storage cylinder without exposing any storage items to the liquid, but still creating a free flowing pathway for the water.

In one embodiment, the thread pattern, material composite, and O-rings will form a 100% waterproof seal at all times when the lid is fully threaded onto the canister.

In one embodiment, a reversible connector can include a cylindrical body having: a first threaded section at a first end of the body, the first threaded section adapted to be threadedly coupled to threading of a bottle; a second threaded section at an opposite second end of the body, the second threaded section adapted to be threadedly coupled to threading of a cap; and at least one of the first or second end of the body has an opening and chamber formed in the body, the chamber having a chamber bottom positioned between the first end and second end, wherein the first threaded section and second threaded section can threadedly receive a common threaded member and thereby is reversible and bidirectional. In one aspect, the first threaded section is on a first stem and second threaded section is on a second stem. In one aspect, the first threaded section is on a first receptacle and the second threaded section is on a second receptacle.

In one embodiment, the connector is unidirectional with the first threaded section on a first receptacle and the second threaded section is on a first stem.

In one embodiment, an annular ridge is between the first threaded section and second threaded section. In one aspect, grip features can be on the annular ridge.

In one embodiment, the chamber bottom is at the first end. Alternatively, the chamber bottom is aligned with the annular ridge. In one aspect, the chamber bottom forms a surface at and is even with the first end.

In one embodiment, a seal seat is on at least one of the first threaded section or second threaded section. In one aspect, a seal can be located in the seal seat.

In one embodiment, two or more chambers are included in the connector, either side-by-side or top and bottom.

In one embodiment, the threading is standard clockwise tightening threading on at least one of the first threaded section or second threaded section.

In one embodiment, the connector includes a filter that is fluidly separate from the chamber.

In one embodiment, the connector includes a straw pathway that is fluidly separate from the chamber.

In one embodiment, a polymeric annular member is located on at least one of the first or second threaded sections. In one aspect, the polymeric annular member includes threads corresponding with threads on a bottle. In one aspect, the polymeric annular member is thermally modifiable.

In one embodiment, a cap storage system can include: the connector of one of the embodiments; and a cap having a cap threaded section adapted to be threadedly coupled with one of the first threaded section or second threaded section of the connector, wherein coupling the cap and connector forms a sealed storage compartment with the connector chamber. In one aspect, the cap threaded section is on a cap stem. In one aspect, the cap threaded section is on a cap receptacle. In one aspect, a cap chamber is included that cooperates with the connector chamber to form the storage compartment. In one aspect, the threaded cap receptacle being dimensioned to contact the annular ridge of the connector when the cap is received on the connector. In one aspect, grip features are included on the cap. In one aspect, the cap is capable of being received on both the first and second threaded sections. In one aspect, the cap and connector are cooperatively configured such that the cap only threadedly couples with one of the first and second threaded sections. In one aspect, the chamber bottom forms a surface at and is even with the first end. In one aspect, an aperture extends through the cap, the aperture fluidly separate from the chamber and/or storage compartment. In one aspect, the cap includes a whistle. In one aspect, the cap includes a compass. In one aspect, the connector includes a fluid pathway that fluidly couples with the filter of the connector that is fluidly separate from the cap chamber and/or connector chamber and/or storage compartment. In one aspect, the cap includes a straw pathway that fluidly couples with the connector straw pathway and that is fluidly separate from the connector chamber and/or cap chamber and/or storage compartment.

In one embodiment, the connector chamber and/or cap chamber and/or storage compartment is adapted to receive or contains one or more of the following: matches, keys, credit card, identification card, medical card, insurance card, passport, medicine, medicine bottle, syringe, pre-filled syringes, EpiPen, insulin syringe, glucose monitor, mobile device, smartphone, music device, speakers, headphones, Bluetooth® device, corded device (e.g., storage compartment can have a slot or hole to receive the cord thereof), portable gaming device, camera, knife, water tablets, water purifying tablets, medications, chewing gum, mints, jewelry, Band-Aids, keys, supplements, supplement powders, USB sticks, memory cards, cash, coins, vaccines for warfare, whistle, compass, makeup, lip balm, golf tees, golf balls, ball markers, USB cord, pencil sharpeners, hand warmers, hand sanitizers, tea packet, a public transit pass or ticket, wallet (e.g., dimensioned to fit in jeans pocket or other standard or known wallet shape), money clip, clock, watch, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the cap comprises one or more of: key ring, keys, magnet, metal, whistle, animal or game call device, camera, mobile device, speakers, headphones, carabineer, pull spout, compass, speaker, headphones, filter system, solar panel, battery, solar panel and battery and charging electronics, camera mount, clock, watch, or combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the cap and/or connector includes indicia. For example, the cap and/or connector includes indicia of a logo, name, or trademark.

In one embodiment, a bottle with a cap storage system can include: a bottle having a bottle threaded section; and the cap storage system of one of the claims, wherein at least one of the first threaded section or second threaded section of the connector is adapted to threadedly couple with the bottle threaded section. In one aspect, the bottle is rigid or hard. In one aspect, the bottle is deformable or collapsible or not rigid or hard. For example, the bottle can be a bladder. In one aspect, the bottle threaded section is on a stem. In one aspect, the bottle threaded section is on a receptacle. The bottle can be any material, such as plastic, metal, magnetic or the like. In one aspect, the connector chamber is oriented away from the bottle when the bottle and connector are coupled together. In one aspect, the connector chamber is oriented into the bottle when the bottle and connector are coupled together. In one aspect, the bottle is coupled to the connector and the connector is coupled to the cap.

In one embodiment, a kit can include a plurality of connectors of one of the claims. In one aspect, the kit can include a cap that threadedly couples with a plurality of the connectors. In one aspect, the kit can include a cap that threadedly couples with only one of the connectors. In one aspect, the plurality of connectors are reversible. In one aspect, the kit can include a plurality of connectors being unidirectional. In one aspect, the kit can include connectors of different types. The kit can include the connectors being threadedly coupled end to end to form an elongate chamber therein or a plurality of chambers.

In one embodiment, a method of storing an object can include: providing the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; placing the object in the connector chamber; and coupling the cap with the connector so as to form the storage compartment with the object therein. In one aspect, the method can include: providing the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; placing the object in the cap chamber; and coupling the cap with the connector so as to form the storage compartment with the object therein. In one aspect, the method can include: providing the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; placing the object in the cap chamber and/or connector chamber; and coupling the cap with the connector so as to form the storage compartment with the object therein. In one aspect, the object includes one or more of the following: matches, keys, credit card, identification card, medical card, insurance card, passport, medicine, medicine bottle, syringe, pre-filled syringes, EpiPen, insulin syringe, glucose monitor, mobile device, smartphone, music device, speakers, headphones, Bluetooth® device, corded device (e.g., storage compartment can have a slot or hole to receive the cord thereof), portable gaming device, camera, knife, water tablets, water purifying tablets, medications, chewing gum, mints, jewelry, Band-Aids, keys, supplements, supplement powders, USB sticks, memory cards, cash, coins, vaccines for warfare, whistle, compass, makeup, lip balm, golf tees, golf balls, ball markers, USB cord, pencil sharpeners, hand warmers, hand sanitizers, tea packet, a public transit pass or ticket, wallet (e.g., dimensioned to fit in jeans pocket or other standard or known wallet shape), money clip, clock, watch, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, a method of storing a comestible composition can include: providing the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; placing the comestible composition in the connector chamber; and coupling the cap with the connector so as to form the storage compartment with the comestible composition therein. In one aspect, the method can include: providing the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; placing the comestible composition in the cap chamber; and coupling the cap with the connector so as to form the storage compartment with the comestible composition therein. In one aspect, the method can include: providing the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; placing the comestible composition in the cap chamber and/or connector chamber; and coupling the cap with the connector so as to form the storage compartment with the comestible composition therein.

In one embodiment, a method of mixing a drink can include: providing the cap storage system of one of the embodiments; placing a comestible composition in the cap chamber and/or connector chamber; and coupling the cap and or connector with the comestible composition with a bottle having a liquid so that comestible composition is received into the liquid in the bottle. In one aspect, the connector is coupled with the bottle so that the connector chamber is oriented into the bottle. In one aspect, the method includes shaking the bottle while the connector is coupled with the bottle so that the connector chamber is oriented into the bottle.

In one embodiment, a method of consuming a drink can include: providing the connector of one of the embodiments; placing a comestible liquid in the connector chamber; and consuming the comestible liquid from the connector chamber. In one aspect, the comestible liquid includes ethyl alcohol.

In one embodiment, a method of using a cap storage system can include: providing the cap storage system; and using an object associated with the cap.

In one embodiment, a method of using a cap storage system can include: providing the cap storage system; and using an object stored in the storage compartment.

The cap storage system can be adapted to the following brands: Sigg, Nalgene, Klean Kanteen, Liberty Bottle Works, Nathan, Polar Bottle, Contigo, Camelbak, Mizum, and People Water.

The cap storage system can be customized for use in the following events: Crossfit Games, X Games, Super Bowl, Master's, Boy Scouts National, Olympics, SXSW, Coachella, All Star Weekend, Sundance, BCS title game, Dew Tour, Oscars, MTV Music Awards, and ESPYS.

The invention can have the storage compartment customized or generally useful for the following objects and can include: watch, matches, water tablets, medication, chewing gum/mint, jewelry, Band-Aids, keys, medical ID card, dietary supplements, supplement powder, USB stick/memory card, cash/coins, headphones, warfare vaccine, whistle, compass, makeup, lip balm, golf tee/ball mark, USB cord, pencil sharpener, hand warmer, hand sanitizer, tea packet, and public transit pass/ticket.

The invention can be used in the following uses or places: gym, outdoor (camping), biking, hiking, climbing, watersports, travel, airports, snow/skate/surf, skiing, beach, golf, infomercials, big box stores (e.g., Walmart, Target), streetwear store (Zumiez, Urban Outfitters), grocery store, college bookstores, hunting, convenience stores, department stores, Sky Mall, promotional catalogs, resorts/casinos, daily commute, office, amusement parks, hospitals, schools, civic emergencies, disaster relief, police/ambulance, coast guard, and armed forces.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that, for this and other processes and methods disclosed herein, the functions performed in the processes and methods may be implemented in differing order. Furthermore, the outlined steps and operations are only provided as examples, and some of the steps and operations may be optional, combined into fewer steps and operations, or expanded into additional steps and operations without detracting from the essence of the disclosed embodiments.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds compositions or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as “up to,” “at least,” and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 cells. Similarly, a group having 1-5 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 cells, and so forth.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. All references recited herein are incorporated herein by specific reference in their entirety, such as U.S. Pat. No. 8,286,821. 

1. A connector comprising: a cylindrical body having: a first threaded section at a first end of the body; a second threaded section at an opposite second end of the body; and at least one of the first or second end of the body has an opening and chamber formed in the body, the chamber having a chamber bottom positioned between the first end and second end, wherein the first threaded section and second threaded section having a same threading pattern and capable of being threadedly coupled to a same threaded receiver so that the connector is bidirectional.
 2. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first threaded section is on a first stem and second threaded section is on a second stem.
 3. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first threaded section is adapted to be threadedly coupled to threading of a bottle, and the second threaded section adapted to be threadedly coupled to threading of a cap, the bottle and cap having a same threading pattern that threadedly receive the first and second threaded sections.
 4. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first threaded section is on a first receptacle and the second threaded section is on a second receptacle.
 5. The connector of claim 1, comprising an annular ridge between the first threaded section and second threaded section.
 6. The connector of claim 1, wherein the chamber bottom is at the first end.
 7. The connector of claim 1, wherein the chamber bottom is aligned with the annular ridge.
 8. The connector of claim 1, comprising a seal seat on at least one of the first threaded section or second threaded section.
 9. The connector of claim 8, comprising a seal located in the seal seat.
 10. The connector of claim 1, comprising two or more chambers.
 11. The connector of claim 1, wherein the connector includes a filter that is fluidly separate from the chamber.
 12. The connector of claim 1, the connector includes a straw pathway that is fluidly separate from the chamber.
 13. The connector of claim 1, comprising a polymeric annular member on at least one of the first or second threaded sections, the polymeric annular member is thermally modifiable.
 14. A cap storage system comprising: the connector of claim 1; and a cap having a cap threaded section adapted to be threadedly coupled with both of the first threaded section and second threaded section of the connector, wherein coupling the cap and connector forms a sealed storage compartment with the connector chamber.
 15. The cap storage system of claim 15, wherein the cap threaded section is on a cap stem.
 16. The cap storage system of claim 15, wherein the cap threaded section is on a cap receptacle.
 17. The cap storage system of claim 15, comprising a cap chamber that cooperates with the connector chamber to form the storage compartment.
 18. The cap storage system of claim 15, wherein the cap comprises one or more of: an aperture extending through the cap, the aperture fluidly separate from the chamber and/or storage compartment; a sound device; a compass; a fastener device; a magnetic member; a magnetically responsive member; or a camera fastener.
 19. The cap storage system of claim 15, wherein the connector includes a fluid pathway that fluidly couples with a filter of the connector that is fluidly separate from the cap chamber and/or connector chamber and/or storage compartment.
 20. The cap storage system of claim 15, the cap includes a straw pathway that fluidly couples with a connector straw pathway and that is fluidly separate from the connector chamber and/or cap chamber and/or storage compartment.
 21. The bottle and cap storage system comprising: the cap storage system of claim 15; and a bottle having a threaded receiver that is capable of threadedly coupling with both the first threaded section and second threaded section. 